The Great Prince Shan by E. Phillips (Edward Phillips) Oppenheim
page 6 of 272 (02%)
page 6 of 272 (02%)
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not seeing any other callers. He left word, however, that you were to be
shown in the moment you arrived." "His lordship is quite well, I hope?" "Well in health, sir, but worried, and I don't wonder at it," the man replied, speaking with the respectful freedom of an old servant. "I never thought I'd live to see such times as these." A man in the early sixties, still good-looking, notwithstanding a somewhat worn expression, looked up from his seat at the library table on Kingley's entrance. He nodded, but waited until the door was closed behind the retreating servant before he spoke. "Good of you to come, Nigel," he said. "Bring your chair up here." "Bad news?" the newcomer enquired. "Damnable!" There was a brief silence, during which Nigel, knowing his uncle's humours, leaned back in his chair and waited. Upon the table was a little pile of closely written manuscript, and by their side several black-bound code books, upon which the "F.O.Private" still remained, though almost obliterated with time. Lord Dorminster's occupation was apparent. He was decoding a message of unusual length. Presently he turned away from the table, however, and faced his nephew. His hands travelled to his waistcoat pocket. He drew out a cigarette from a thin gold case, lit it and began to smoke. Then he crossed his legs and leaned a little farther back in his chair. |
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